Beach volleyball at sunset on St. Kitts; credit SKTA
St. Kitts Liming with Locals
Get your groove on. Catch the Caribbean vibe and ‘lime’ with the people of St. Kitts at the places they frequent. Check out these St. Kitts hot spots:
Island Rhythms
Combining karaoke, dancing, video games, entertainment and music ranging from smooth jazz, soca, reggae, calypso, dancehall or the latest hip-hop tunes to traditional soul or R&B in this three-story downtown venue. A sense of belonging permeates throughout the entire venue and the friendly, fun environment makes people want to return again and again.
Oasis Bar
For another great place to kick back on the beach, this little sports bar is a big draw for individuals of all ages who want to watch their sport of choice on the large screen plasma TV with friends and casual acquaintances. Visitors can join in easily on conversations about what’s on the screen and toss back a refreshing, cold beverage with the crowd. Lucky visitors who stop in when there’s a cricket match being played might even get into the game and learn what a “googly” is from the Kittitians, who are passionate and enthusiastic about their national pastime and eager to introduce the sport to newcomers.
Mr. X Shaggily Shack
Whether looking for a roaring bonfire, live band, karaoke or even a fire-eater show, ask any Kittitian and be directed to the famous Mr. X’s. This place will feel like home, only better, as the sound of the waves upon the beach provides a perfect complement to the easygoing Caribbean music playing in the background. For a real Kittitian treat, ask the bartender for a Brinley Gold Vanilla Rum on the rocks.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Seafood is the specialty every day at this always busy Bassettere restaurant that’s become a St. Kitts institution. Located, literally, on the wharf across from the Ocean Terrace Inn and overlooking the city lights at night, patrons dine on ackee, lobster and other freshly caught fish which they can watch the chefs prepare on an open charcoal grill. Everyone feels like a part of one community here, with the lighthearted ambiance created by lively conversations of locals and visitors and the shared enjoyment of a good meal.
Bobbsy’s
Tucked into a little shopping center on the road between Basseterre and the Southeast Peninsula is the evening venue of choice for Kittitians who want to dance the night away. Located on the second floor, the vibrations from the music can be felt from the first stair and the Caribbean rhythms lure visitors as well as residents from all across the island. There’s weekend entertainment, non-stop dancing, occasional karaoke and latin nights, and a fabulous blend of sounds that everyone can enjoy. Just prior to Carnival season, local performers come here to play and warm up for the calypso competitions that are part of the annual festivities.
Ballyhoo
Located right in the heart of downtown Basseterre and overlooking the Circus, this West Indian eatery is at its busiest during the lunch hour. Business people and government officials from the surrounding offices often meet and eat here while tourists especially love the second-story location with a balcony offering an excellent view of this bustling city center. Arrive early before the scrumptious Conch Chowder sells out.
Reggae Beach Bar & Grill
Locals enjoy diverse activities such as beach volleyball, ocean kayaking, deep sea fishing, snorkeling, relaxing on the beach and casual dining at a open air bar & grill area, Reggae Beach Bar is an island “must” for chillin’ out and meeting both locals and tourists alike. Wilbert the Pig is the venue’s unofficial yet much-loved mascot. Equipment rentals are located on-site and there’s even a gift shop for souvenirs.
Spratnet
Just outside of Basseterre in Old Road Town, this unassuming little restaurant is a favorite of the Kittitians on Friday evenings! Taste of what the locals love to eat, while seated at picnic tables under a covered outdoor patio. It’s casual dining at its best with delicious Kittitian cuisine at local prices.
